Climate change may produce “fast-food” phytoplankton
With warmer ocean temperatures, the composition of marine plankton could shift from protein-rich to carb-heavy, a new study suggests.
A complicated future for a methane-cleansing molecule
A new model shows how levels of the “atmosphere’s detergent” may rise and fall in response to climate change.
Investigating Antarctic ice shelf melting with global navigation satellite systems
Observations suggest a major melting event at the Ross Ice Shelf was connected to atmospheric turbulence.
3 Questions: Communicating about climate, in audio and beyond
Madison Goldberg, the new host of the Ask MIT Climate podcast, talks about her career as a science communicator as well as ideas she thinks it’s important for climate communicators to convey.
Sustaining diplomacy amid competition in US-China relations
At MIT, former U.S. ambassador to China Nicholas Burns highlights climate change as an area for diplomatic engagement, while exploring areas including China's emphasis on STEM education.
Ocean bacteria team up to break down biodegradable plastic
MIT researchers uncovered the roles of bacterial species from the environment as they consume biodegradable plastic.
From Idaho to MIT, on a quest to cut methane emissions
PhD student Audrey Parker studies methane mitigation strategies in dairy farms and coal mines, to reduce emissions of the potent greenhouse gas.
X-raying rocks reveals their carbon-storing capacity
New research by MIT geophysicists could assist efforts to remove carbon from the atmosphere and store it underground.
Coping with catastrophe
Japan incorporates more disaster planning into its buildings and public spaces than any other nation. Miho Mazereeuw’s new book explains how they do it.
More trees where they matter, please
An international study reveals disparities in urban shade levels, exacerbating the “heat island” effect in big cities.
Study reveals climatic fingerprints of wildfires and volcanic eruptions
In research that could help elucidate humans’ role in global warming, scientists showed how three major natural events impacted global atmospheric temperatures.
Parking-aware navigation system could prevent frustration and emissions
By minimizing the need to drive around looking for a parking spot, this technique can save drivers up to 35 minutes — and give them a realistic estimate of total travel time.
Understanding ammonia energy’s tradeoffs around the world
MIT Energy Initiative researchers calculated the economic and environmental impact of future ammonia energy production and trade pathways.
3 Questions: How AI could optimize the power grid
While the growing energy demands of AI are worrying, some techniques can also help make power grids cleaner and more efficient.
Positioning Massachusetts as a hub for climate tech and economic development
Massachusetts Clean Energy Center CEO MBA ’12 Emily Reichert highlights the state government’s unique approach to fostering and keeping clean energy innovation.